The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to North America from June through July 2026, and it is already reshaping the summer gift and home market calendar.
With matches taking place across major host cities, the World Cup is impacting trade show schedules, hotel availability, and travel demand and one thing becomes clear: Summer 2026 will not be business as usual.
As you plan to attend summer markets, the smartest move you can make right now is simple: plan early.
To make your experience as easy as possible, here’s what you need to know about the updated summer show pattern:
Atlanta Gift & Apparel
Official show dates: June 8 to 14
Road Runners Early Bird VIB Shopping: Beginning Sunday, June 6 and 7
Dallas Apparel
June 16 to 19
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market
Official show dates: June 24 to 30
Road Runners Early Bird Shopping: Beginning Monday, June 23
Las Vegas Market
Official show dates: July 26 to 30
Road Runners Early Bird Shopping: Beginning Saturday, July 25
With the World Cup overlapping key travel windows, hotels and flights will fill quickly, especially in major cities like Atlanta and Dallas. If you have never experienced the Las Vegas Market, this just might be the perfect time to experience a new market.
Why Booking Now Matters
Waiting to book travel may cost you with higher rates, limited proximity options, and added stress. Planning now means you can focus on what matters most: shopping for your store.
Use the Official Travel Sites
Each Market Center offers a dedicated travel portal with negotiated rates and access to the most convenient properties near the showrooms. These are consistently the best options for buyers.
Book through these official links:
Atlanta
https://www.atlantamarket.com/Attend/Travel/Hotels-and-Air-Travel
Dallas Apparel
https://book.passkey.com/event/51023255/owner/14227/home
Dallas Gift
https://book.passkey.com/event/51018516/owner/14227/home
Las Vegas
https://www.lasvegasmarket.com/Visit/Travel/Hotels-and-Air-Travel
Securing your hotel now ensures you are close to the market and protected from the surge in World Cup tourism pricing.
Book Your Rep Appointments Early
Just as travel will tighten, so will appointment calendars.
We encourage retailers to book appointments with their local Road Runners reps now to secure dedicated time during the market. Book your appointment here with your local rep.
Plan Now. Profit Later.
The 2026 summer season will be unique. Between the global excitement of the FIFA World Cup and the timing of the market, proactive planning will separate the prepared from the pressured. Lock in your travel. Secure your appointments. Mark your calendar for Early Bird shopping. Future you will be grateful you did.